Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke. People with COPD are at increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer, and a variety of other conditions.
Causes
The primary cause of COPD is long-term exposure to lung irritants that damage the lungs and airways. The most common irritants include:- Tobacco smoke (including secondhand smoke)
- Air pollution
- Chemical fumes and dusts from the environment or workplace
Symptoms
COPD develops slowly and usually worsens over time. The main symptoms include:- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Chronic cough that may produce mucus (sputum) that may be clear, white, yellow or greenish
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Lack of energy
- Unintended weight loss (in later stages)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of COPD is confirmed through a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests, including:- Medical history assessment
- Physical examination
- Spirometry (a lung function test to measure the amount and speed of air a person can inhale and exhale)
- Chest X-ray or CT scan
- Arterial blood gas analysis
Treatment
While there is no cure for COPD, treatment can help control symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and generally improve quality of life. Treatments include:- Quitting smoking and avoiding lung irritants
- Medications, such as bronchodilators (which help open the airways), inhaled steroids (to reduce lung inflammation), and antibiotics (for treating respiratory infections)
- Ongoing management including pulmonary rehabilitation and exercises to strengthen the respiratory muscles
- Oxygen therapy for those with severe COPD and low oxygen levels
- Surgical options, such as lung volume reduction surgery and lung transplantation, for severe cases